The Big Snail Count

We are getting behind the 'The BIG Snail Count' and asking you to take part in the Nationwide ecological experiment and competiton!

What slimy surprises are lurking in your garden?

Some slugs and snails carry a parasite called lungworm, (Angiostrongylus
vasorum). Dogs can contract this parasite after they eat an infected
slug or snail, and it can prove fatal. With a growing number of slugs
and snails in the UK, we want to find out where they are most common and
how they spend their time in our gardens. With this information, we'll
be able to help raise awareness of the potential risk of lungworm by
educating dog owners across the country.

Take part in our nationwide ecological
experiment. All you need to do is spend 10 minutes in your garden and
tell us what you discover. It's easy to take part:

1Find them:

Simply go out into your garden and start your hunt for slugs and
snails - you can watch our video for some tips on where you might find
them. Set a timer for 10 minutes and stop looking when your time is up.

2Count them:

Once your ten minutes is up, record how many
you have found, noting down the conditions and any interesting
locations or findings. Don't forget to take pictures!

3Submit your findings:

Enter your findings using the form below. Show us your pictures using the #bigsnailcount hashtag to be in with a chance of winning one of five prizes!

Post your pictures to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #bigsnailcount. They are awarding prizes under these categories*:

*To help them verify your entry, it is best to photograph your snail / slug next
to a ruler or a 1p coin. Remember to tell them which category you are
entering in your post. Entries subject to terms and conditions.